Description
Rich Chocolate Layer Cake
Enjoy the ultimate chocolate experience with this layer cake, perfect for chocoholics! Smooth ganache makes every bite heavenly.
Ingredients:
1½ cups flour
1 cup sugar
½ cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ cup melted butter
1 cup yogurt
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups ganache
Steps:
Preheat oven to 350°F and line cake pans.
Mix dry ingredients. Combine wet ingredients in another bowl.
Gradually add dry to wet and mix until smooth.
Bake for 30–35 minutes and cool completely.
Frost with ganache, layering the cake, and enjoy.
What’s your secret to a perfect chocolate cake? Comment below!
#GanacheGoodness
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a flawless cake. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder, ensuring no lumps remain. In a separate medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and emulsified.
Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the well. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined; do not overmix. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake on the center rack for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Level the tops if needed, then frost with ganache.
Serving Suggestions
This rich cake is versatile. For a classic presentation, serve simple slices with a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar. To elevate it, add fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries, whose acidity cuts through the richness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream creates a perfect contrast. For a dinner party, garnish with chocolate shavings, gold leaf, or edible flowers.
How-to Summary
In brief: Prepare pans and oven. Whisk dry ingredients, then wet ingredients separately. Combine wet and dry gently. Divide batter and bake for 30-35 minutes at 350°F. Cool cakes completely before frosting with a generous layer of ganache between and over the entire cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use oil instead of melted butter? Yes, an equal amount of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) will work and can yield a slightly moister crumb.
My ganache is too runny. How do I fix it? Allow it to cool at room temperature longer, or briefly refrigerate it, stirring every 5 minutes until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely. The unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature for one day or frozen for up to a month. Frost the day you plan to serve.
What can I substitute for yogurt? An equal amount of sour cream or buttermilk are excellent substitutes that will maintain moisture and tenderness.
How do I ensure my layers are flat for stacking? Use cake strips around the pans while baking, or simply trim the domed tops with a serrated knife once the cakes are completely cool.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, leading to a tough, dense cake. Mix until just combined.
- Frosting a warm cake: The ganache will melt and slide off. Ensure cakes are completely cool.
- Incorrectly measuring flour: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Scooping directly packs the flour, resulting in a dry cake.
- Opening the oven door too early: Wait until at least the 25-minute mark to check, as a sudden temperature drop can cause the cake to fall.
Conclusion
This rich chocolate layer cake is a celebration of deep, luxurious flavor and satisfying texture. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a stunning, professional-quality dessert at home. The combination of moist cake and silky ganache is truly irresistible. We hope this guide helps you master this classic. What’s your secret to a perfect chocolate cake? Comment below! #GanacheGoodness